EPA’s Clean Air Interstate Act to save $85 to $100 billion in Health Care Costs
On March 10, 2005 the Environmental Agency passed the Clean Air Interstate Rule (CAIR) that will offer steep and sustained reductions in air pollution, as well as dramatic health benefits at more than 25 times greater than the cost.
By 2015, CAIR will permanently cap emissions of sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) thus reducing emissions levels by 70% and 60%, respectively. By implementing CAIR in 28 eastern states and the District of Columbia, there will be an estimated $85 to $100 billion in annual health benefits; prevention of 17,000 premature deaths annually, millions of lost work and school days, and tens of thousands of non-fatal heart attacks and hospital admissions.
In addition to the dramatic reduction in human health issues, CAIR lends a hand in increasing visibility in the southeastern national parks and reduces the number of acidic streams and lakes in the eastern United States. This rule will be responsible for the largest reduction in air pollution in over a decade.
To read more about CAIR go to http://www.epa.gov/cair
|
|